IIT Mandi Celebrates Gita Jayanti To Bridge Education with Spirituality and Culture
The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi celebrated Gita Jayanti with great
enthusiasm through ‘Gitanushilanam 2025’, organised by the IKSMHA Centre (Indian
Knowledge System and Mental Health Applications) in collaboration with Learn Gita
Live Gita, an online platform dedicated to the scientific study of the Bhagavad Gita. At
IIT Mandi, the IKSMHA Centre strives to make use of ancient wisdom of Bhagavad Gita
in addressing issues such as mental well-being, science of consciousness, and
sustainability.
This year, more than 5,000 students from over 25 schools and colleges across
Mandi and neighbouring regions participated in a month-long series of Bhagavad
Gita–based competitions. Under the mentorship of IIT Mandi faculty and students, the
participants were introduced to the science and philosophy of the Gita. Students
enthusiastically engaged in shloka recitation, essay writing, artmaking, and quiz
competitions, culminating in the grand prize distribution ceremony during the
Gitanushilanam celebrations.
A central highlight of the event was the chorus recitation of the Bhagavad Gita,
paying homage to the sacred dialogue between Lord Krishna and Arjuna on the
battlefield of Kurukshetra. The collective chanting created an atmosphere of devotion
and introspection, leaving a profound impact on the audience.
Prof. Laxmidhar Behera, Director, IIT Mandi, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the
teachers of all participating schools, the students, performers, and the dedicated
volunteers whose collective efforts made the event meaningful. He described the
Bhagavad Gita as “the soul of India — the very essence that makes India what it is.”
Emphasising its transformative power, he noted that pressing societal challenges in
Himachal Pradesh—such as drug abuse, rising suicide cases, and mental health
distress—can be effectively addressed when the wisdom of the Gita reaches every hand
and every household. He thanked the young children for embracing this guiding light so
sincerely and highlighted that the third consecutive celebration of Gitanushilanam at IIT
Mandi has been a grand success, reflecting the institute’s commitment to nurturing
values-based education alongside academic excellence.
Ms. Soumya Sambasivan, DIG (Deputy Inspector General of Police), Dharamshala
Range, highlighted the Gita’s role in emotional development and moral leadership
among today’s youth. She shared,
“It was an honour to experience the same spirit of contemplation that Swami
Vivekananda embraced. Returning to the IIT Mandi campus feels truly special. I
encourage students to walk the path of devotion and respect for their teachers, as these
values strengthen character and help overcome life’s challenges.”
Mr. Lalit Kumar Awasthi, Vice-Chancellor, Sardar Patel University, Mandi,
appreciated IIT Mandi’s efforts in introducing spiritual learning to young students. He
remarked,
“It is heartening to see IIT Mandi offering children the opportunity to learn the
Bhagavad Gita from an early age. Having recited the Gita twice myself, I firmly believe
that embracing its teachings can bring meaningful transformation in one’s life.”
The event featured a vibrant array of cultural performances, including Natti Folk
Dance, Mandav Nagri Nrutya, Yoga Dance, and a captivating Shadow Drama based
on Gita teachings. The celebrations concluded with an engaging Mega Quiz conducted by
the Honourable Director, encouraging active participation and joyful learning. Winners
received copies of the Bhagavad Gita along with prizes, inspiring them to apply its
teachings in their daily lives.
Event organisers expressed that the purpose of Gitanushilanam is to help young minds
experience the Gita not merely as a scripture, but as a living science (way of life)
—one that nurtures clarity of thought, emotional resilience, righteous action, and
ethical leadership.
